French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table, let me introduce you to French Onion Funeral Potatoes. This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole, featuring a rich, creamy base topped with homemade crispy onions. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that makes any gathering feel special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cheerful family reunion, these potatoes are sure to impress everyone around the table.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easily it can be prepared. It’s packed with flavor and offers a nostalgic taste that reminds many of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. Trust me, once you make these French Onion Funeral Potatoes, they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be whipped up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy texture and cheesy goodness.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings or busy days.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and caramelized onions creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: It pairs well with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled vegetables.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this comforting dish, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need for your French Onion Funeral Potatoes:

For the Casserole

• 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns (thawed)
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 ½ cups (345 g) sour cream
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• ¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried mustard
• ½ cup (120 g) chicken broth (room temperature)
• ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk (room temperature)

For the Crispy Onion Topping

• 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced, layers separated; about 4 cups onions)
• 4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Veggies: Toss in some cooked broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavors.
• Spice it Up: Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to elevate the flavors even more.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your potatoes bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze later on.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining butter and add the diced onion. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This process enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to our casserole.

Step 4: Mix Together Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, sautéed onions, minced garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk. Stir well until everything is nicely coated!

Step 5: Pour into Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Smooth out the top so every bite bakes evenly.

Step 6: Prepare Crispy Onions

In another skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil until shimmering. Carefully add the thinly sliced onions and cook until golden brown and crispy—about 10-15 minutes. Sprinkle with kosher salt while cooking for added flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Bake your casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. During the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle those crispy onions generously over the top for an irresistible crunch!

And there you have it! Your French Onion Funeral Potatoes are ready to be served hot out of the oven! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Creating the perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes is all about enhancing flavors and achieving that ideal texture. Here are some pro tips to help you on your culinary journey:

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly diced onions and high-quality cheese will make a significant difference in flavor, giving your casserole a rich, homemade taste.
• Don’t skip the thawing step: Ensuring your hash browns are fully thawed prevents excess moisture, which can lead to a soggy casserole. Aim for a dry base for that crispy finish!
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or cayenne levels based on your taste preferences. Customizing the seasoning allows you to make this dish uniquely yours.
• Layer it up: For an even distribution of flavors, alternate layers of potatoes and cheese mixture before baking. This technique ensures every bite is deliciously cheesy!
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely and makes it easier to serve.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are sure to steal the show at any gathering! Presenting them beautifully will enhance their appeal even further. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Sprinkle chopped chives on top just before serving for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds freshness and brightens up the dish visually.
• Additional cheese: Top with extra shredded cheddar just before serving for an extra cheesy finish that guests will love.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt; roast until crisp-tender. The garlic complements the onion flavors beautifully.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the potatoes.
• Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots drizzled with honey offer a lovely contrast to the savory potatoes while adding a splash of color to your plate.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans seasoned with lemon juice provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, your French Onion Funeral Potatoes are bound to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a comforting side dish ahead of time. You can easily store leftovers or even freeze portions for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Remove from the refrigerator or freezer and transfer to an oven-safe dish if needed.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes if refrigerated or 45-50 minutes if frozen, removing the foil in the last few minutes for a crispy topping.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes without sour cream?

Yes! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a similar creamy texture.

How do I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Then, bake it when you’re ready!

Can I use fresh onions instead of frozen hash browns for my French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

While frozen hash browns provide convenience, you can use freshly grated potatoes. Just be sure to par-cook them slightly before adding them to your mix to ensure even cooking.

What are some good side dishes to serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These cheesy potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful French Onion Funeral Potatoes as much as I love sharing this recipe with you! They bring warmth and comfort to any gathering, making them perfect for family dinners and potlucks. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings or add-ins. Happy cooking, and may every bite be delicious!